ANIME ARIZONA 2026

VENDOR & ARTIST LOAD-IN INSTRUCTIONS

​

November 13–15, 2026
Phoenix Convention Center — South Building
Phoenix, Arizona

Welcome to Anime Arizona 2026!

​

We're excited to have you join us for an incredible weekend at the Phoenix Convention Center.

Please read the following instructions carefully before arriving. This page contains important information regarding show hours, vendor load-in, parking, credentials, merchandise restrictions, and additional services.

​

1. VENDOR SHOW TIMES

​

Anime Arizona 2026 will take place November 13–15 at the Phoenix Convention Center.

​

Friday, November 13 — Preview Night

• 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Vendor Hall & Artist Alley Open

​

Saturday, November 14

• 9:00 AM: Celebrity Signing Area Opens

• 9:30 AM: VIP Entry to Vendor Hall & Artist Alley

• 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM: General Admission Hours

​

Sunday, November 15

• 9:00 AM: Celebrity Signing Area Opens

• 9:30 AM: VIP Entry to Vendor Hall & Artist Alley

• 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: General Admission Hours

​

IMPORTANT SETUP REQUIREMENTS

​

FRIDAY SETUP DEADLINE

All vendor and artist booths must be fully set up and operational by 2:00 PM on Friday, November 13.

Failure to have your booth fully set up by this deadline may result in your assigned space being forfeited and offered to a waitlisted vendor or artist without a refund.

We strongly encourage exhibitors to take advantage of Thursday's load-in period whenever possible to avoid delays.

​

SATURDAY & SUNDAY EARLY ACCESS

All vendors and artists should be fully set up and ready for attendees by 9:00 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

​

Although the Vendor Hall officially opens to VIP attendees at 9:30 AM and General Admission at 10:00 AM, the Celebrity Signing Area opens at 9:00 AM. Some early-entry attendees may enter the Vendor Hall before its official opening time.

​

Please plan accordingly and ensure your booth is fully staffed and prepared for attendees.

​

2. VENDOR LOAD-IN / LOAD-OUT INFORMATION

​

Thursday, November 12 — Early Vendor Load-In

​

2:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Vendors and artists are strongly encouraged to take advantage of Thursday's early load-in period.

​

Loading in on Thursday will allow additional time to set up your space and help avoid congestion during Friday morning's load-in period.

​

Friday, November 13 — Final Vendor Load-In

​

7:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Friday morning will be the final opportunity for vendors and artists to bring in merchandise and complete their initial setup before the event opens.

​

IMPORTANT: All booths must be fully set up and operational by 2:00 PM on Friday, November 13.

​

Failure to complete your setup by this deadline may result in your assigned space being forfeited and offered to a waitlisted vendor or artist without a refund.

​

We strongly recommend arriving early and allowing additional time for unloading, check-in, and setup.

​

Saturday, November 14 — Vendor Access / Restocking

​

7:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Vendors and artists may access their spaces to restock merchandise, make adjustments, and prepare for the day.

​

All spaces should be fully staffed and ready for attendees by 9:00 AM.

​

Sunday, November 15 — Vendor Access / Restocking

​

7:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Vendors and artists may access their spaces to restock merchandise and prepare for the final day of the convention.

​

All spaces should be fully staffed and ready for attendees by 9:00 AM.

​

Sunday, November 15 — Vendor Load-Out

​

6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

The convention closes to attendees at 6:00 PM.

​

Vendors may not begin load-out until the convention floor has been cleared of attendees and event staff have given the official all-clear.

​

Do not dismantle your booth, remove merchandise, or transport equipment through attendee areas before load-out is authorized.

​

All exhibitors must complete load-out by 10:00 PM.

​

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

​

• Vendor check-in is required before setting up your space.

• Please follow all instructions provided by Anime Arizona staff, venue personnel, and loading dock attendants.

• Loading docks are for active loading and unloading only. Vehicles may not remain parked in designated loading areas.

• All booth equipment, displays, and merchandise must remain within your assigned space.

• Load-in and load-out procedures are subject to change based on venue operations and safety requirements.

​

3. DOCK LOAD-IN INSTRUCTIONS

​

All vendors and artists bringing merchandise, displays, or equipment into the Phoenix Convention Center must follow the designated load-in procedures.

​

Loading Dock Location

​

Phoenix Convention Center — South Building Loading Dock

20 S. 5th Street, Phoenix, AZ

​

Please follow all posted signs and instructions from Anime Arizona staff, convention center personnel, and loading dock attendants.

​

Loading Dock Rules

​

• 30-MINUTE MAXIMUM: Each vehicle is permitted a maximum of 30 minutes to unload at the loading dock.

• Loading docks are for active unloading only. Parking or leaving vehicles unattended at the dock is strictly prohibited.

• Once your vehicle has been unloaded, it must be moved immediately to an appropriate parking location.

• Please unload your merchandise as efficiently as possible to allow other exhibitors access to the dock.

• Vehicles blocking loading areas or failing to follow instructions may be subject to towing at the owner's expense.

• Vendors must follow all instructions from event staff and loading dock personnel.

​

Recommended Load-In for Small Vendors & Artists

​

If you do not need to bring your vehicle directly to the loading dock, we strongly recommend parking in the East Parking Garage.

The East Parking Garage is the closest parking garage to our designated loading dock.

From the garage, simply cross 5th Street and enter the Phoenix Convention Center through the South Building Loading Dock.

This is generally the quickest and most efficient load-in option for vendors and artists who can transport their merchandise by hand or with a small cart.

Using this method allows you to avoid waiting in the vehicle loading dock queue.

All vendors and artists must enter through the designated loading dock entrance for load-in, including those arriving on foot from the East Parking Garage.

​

Important Reminders

​

• All vendors must check in before setting up their spaces.

• Do not block loading lanes, fire exits, or pedestrian walkways.

• Vendors are responsible for transporting their merchandise and equipment to their assigned booths.

• No vehicles may remain parked at the loading dock after unloading.

• The standard vendor load-in hours listed in Section 2 apply to both vehicle and pedestrian arrivals.

• All load-in procedures are subject to change at the direction of event management or the Phoenix Convention Center.

​

4. VENDOR CHECK-IN

​

All vendors and artists must check in with Anime Arizona staff before setting up their assigned spaces.

​

Check-In Location

​

Phoenix Convention Center — Hallway Near the South Building Loading Dock

20 S. 5th Street, Phoenix, AZ

Vendor and Artist Check-In will be located in the hallway near the South Building Loading Dock.

Please report to this location upon arrival to receive your exhibitor credentials and confirm your booth assignment.

​

Check-In Procedure

​

At check-in, please have the following information ready:

• Your registered business or artist name.

• Your assigned booth or Artist Alley space number.

A photo ID is not required for vendor check-in.

Once your registration has been verified, Anime Arizona staff will provide your vendor credentials and direct you to your assigned space.

​

Booth Assignments

​

Please make sure you are setting up in your assigned booth or Artist Alley space.

IMPORTANT: All booth assignments are subject to change, including on the day of the convention.

If your booth must be relocated due to operational, venue, or safety requirements, Anime Arizona may not be able to provide a replacement space with the same placement, configuration, or location advantages as your original assignment.

Please follow the instructions of event staff regarding any necessary relocations.

​

Booth Equipment & Setup

​

• All tables, chairs, merchandise, displays, and equipment must remain within your assigned space.

• Vendors may bring their own tables, chairs, and display fixtures, provided they fit entirely within their assigned space.

• Do not obstruct aisles, neighboring booths, emergency exits, or access routes.

• If there is an issue with your assigned space or provided equipment, notify Anime Arizona staff at Vendor Check-In.

Additional credential information and check-in instructions will be provided as needed.

​

5. VENDOR BADGES & CREDENTIALS

​

Complimentary Exhibitor Badges

​

Each Vendor Booth and Artist Alley space includes 2 complimentary exhibitor badges.

These badges provide admission to Anime Arizona 2026 for all three days of the convention, as well as access to the Vendor Hall and Artist Alley during designated vendor setup and restocking hours.

​

Additional Exhibitor Badges

​

Additional exhibitor badges may be purchased for $25 each.

If you require additional badges for employees, assistants, or other individuals helping operate your booth, please speak with Anime Arizona staff at Vendor Check-In.

​

Badge Requirements

​

• All vendors, artists, and booth staff must have a valid exhibitor badge to access the convention floor.

• Exhibitor badges must be worn and visible while inside the convention.

• Badges may not be shared or transferred between individuals.

• Exhibitor badges permit access during designated vendor setup and restocking hours.

• Exhibitor badges do not grant VIP privileges, celebrity signing priority, or access to restricted areas.

IMPORTANT: Please ensure that everyone working at your booth has the appropriate credentials before entering the convention floor.

​

6. VENDOR RULES & MERCHANDISE RESTRICTIONS

​

All vendors and artists participating in Anime Arizona 2026 are expected to follow the event's merchandise policies and maintain a safe, welcoming, and family-friendly environment for attendees.

Please review the following policies carefully before arriving at the convention.

​

AI-Generated Artwork & Merchandise

​

The sale of AI-generated artwork or AI-generated products is strictly prohibited at Anime Arizona 2026.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• AI-generated prints, posters, and illustrations.

• AI-generated stickers, keychains, apparel, and accessories.

• Any other merchandise featuring artwork or designs generated using artificial intelligence.

Vendors found selling prohibited AI-generated merchandise may be required to immediately remove the products in question from their booth.

Failure to comply with instructions from Anime Arizona staff may result in additional action, including removal from the event without a refund.

​

Pornographic & Explicit Material

​

The sale or display of pornographic material is strictly prohibited at Anime Arizona 2026.

This includes sexually explicit artwork, prints, books, merchandise, or other products containing pornographic imagery.

All merchandise and displays must be appropriate for a general convention audience.

Anime Arizona staff reserve the right to determine whether merchandise violates this policy and require its immediate removal.

​

Booth Boundaries & Displays

​

• All merchandise, tables, racks, displays, and equipment must remain within your assigned booth or Artist Alley space.

• Vendors may not extend displays into aisles, neighboring booths, or designated emergency pathways.

• Vendors may not relocate, expand, or exchange their assigned spaces without approval from Anime Arizona staff.

• Displays must be securely installed and must not create hazards for attendees or neighboring exhibitors.

• Vendors must comply with all Phoenix Convention Center safety requirements.

​

Booth Assignments & Relocations

​

All booth and Artist Alley assignments are subject to change, including on the day of the convention.

Anime Arizona reserves the right to relocate exhibitors when necessary for operational, logistical, or safety reasons.

If your booth is relocated, we may not be able to accommodate a replacement space with the same location, visibility, configuration, or proximity to specific attractions.

​

Policy Enforcement

​

Anime Arizona staff reserve the right to inspect merchandise and displays for compliance with event policies.

If a vendor is found violating these policies, event management may require:

1. Immediate removal of prohibited merchandise or displays.

2. Changes to booth setup or merchandise presentation.

3. Removal of the vendor or artist from the event for serious or repeated violations, without a refund.

All vendors and artists are responsible for ensuring their merchandise and displays comply with these policies throughout the entire convention.

​

7. VENDOR DOCUMENTS & RESOURCES

​

We've put together a resource folder containing important documents and materials for Anime Arizona 2026.

VIEW ANIME ARIZONA 2026 VENDOR RESOURCES

​

Vendor Floor Plan

​

Please review the latest Anime Arizona 2026 floor plan, when provided, to familiarize yourself with your assigned booth or Artist Alley space.

All booth assignments are subject to change, including on the day of the convention.

​

Official Anime Arizona Logos

​

Official Anime Arizona logos and branding materials are available in the resource folder for vendors and artists who would like to promote their participation in the event.

We encourage exhibitors to share that they'll be attending Anime Arizona 2026 on their social media accounts!

​

Electrical Service Order Form

​

Exhibitors requiring power at their booths must order electrical services separately through Commonwealth Electric.

The electrical order form is available in the vendor resource folder.

Electrical services are not included with your booth or Artist Alley space.

For questions or electrical service orders, please contact Commonwealth Electric or visit:

www.commonwealthexpo.com

​

Loading Dock Information

​

Phoenix Convention Center — South Building Loading Dock

20 S. 5th Street, Phoenix, AZ

Vendors who do not need to bring their vehicles directly to the dock are encouraged to park in the East Parking Garage, cross 5th Street, and enter through the loading dock on foot.

Please review the load-in procedures outlined in Section 3 before arriving.

​

8. ELECTRICAL, INTERNET & ADDITIONAL SERVICES

​

Electrical power and internet service are not included with standard Vendor Booth or Artist Alley reservations at Anime Arizona 2026.

Exhibitors requiring these services are responsible for placing their own orders with the appropriate Phoenix Convention Center service providers.

​

Electrical Services — Commonwealth Electric

​

All electrical services must be ordered through Commonwealth Electric, the official electrical service provider for Anime Arizona 2026.

This includes power for:

• TVs, monitors, and electronic displays.

• Computers, laptops, and charging stations.

• Booth lighting and illuminated signage.

• Other electrical equipment used within your booth.

How to Order Electrical Services:

The official Electrical Order Form is available in our shared vendor resource folder:

ANIME ARIZONA VENDOR RESOURCE FOLDER

Orders may also be placed through Commonwealth Electric:

Website: https://www.commonwealthexpo.com/

Contact: Cathee Cooper
Email: CCooper@commonwealthelectric.com
Phone: (602) 253-5881

Electrical services must be arranged and paid for directly with Commonwealth Electric.

IMPORTANT: Your booth does not include electrical power. Please submit your order before arriving at the convention.

​

Internet & Wi-Fi — Smart City Networks

​

Internet and Wi-Fi services at the Phoenix Convention Center are coordinated through Smart City Networks.

Vendors requiring internet service should review available options and place their orders directly through Smart City Networks.

Internet Ordering Website:

SMART CITY NETWORKS — INTERNET SERVICES

Contact: Chris Clark
Email: csclark@smartcity.com

We strongly encourage vendors to arrange internet service before the event, particularly if reliable connectivity is necessary for payment processing or booth operations.

​

Additional Booth Equipment

​

Vendors and artists requiring additional tables, chairs, or booth furnishings may request these services through our general services contractor, Convention Solutions + Innovation (CSI).

Additional furnishings are subject to availability and separate charges.

Please contact Anime Arizona vendor support for assistance coordinating additional equipment requests.

​

Important Reminders

​

• Electrical power and internet are not included with standard booth reservations.

• All additional service charges are the responsibility of the exhibitor.

• Extension cords may not cross public aisles or obstruct neighboring booths.

• Electrical installations must comply with Phoenix Convention Center safety requirements.

• Last-minute service requests may be subject to additional fees or availability restrictions.

​

9. VENDOR PARKING & TRANSPORTATION

​

Recommended Parking — East Parking Garage

​

We strongly recommend that all vendors and artists park in the Phoenix Convention Center East Parking Garage.

Phoenix Convention Center East Garage

601 E. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85004

The East Parking Garage is the closest parking garage to our designated South Building Loading Dock and provides convenient access for exhibitors transporting merchandise and equipment.

For vendors who do not need to bring their vehicles directly to the loading dock, this is the fastest and most convenient load-in option.

​

Reserve Your Parking in Advance

​

We strongly recommend purchasing your parking in advance!

Several other events will be taking place in downtown Phoenix during Anime Arizona weekend. Parking availability may be limited, and prices are subject to change or increase.

RESERVE YOUR PARKING HERE — PARKPHX

Please note:

• Parking fees are the responsibility of each vendor or artist.

• All parking rates are set and levied by the City of Phoenix, not Anime Arizona.

• Parking availability is not guaranteed without a reservation.

• We recommend securing parking for each day you will be attending the convention.

For additional parking information, please visit our official parking page:

ANIME ARIZONA PARKING INFORMATION

​

Loading In From the East Parking Garage

​

If your merchandise and equipment can be transported by hand or with a small cart, we recommend the following:

1. Park your vehicle in the East Parking Garage.

2. Cross 5th Street toward the Phoenix Convention Center South Building Loading Dock.

3. Enter through the designated loading dock entrance.

4. Check in with Anime Arizona staff at Vendor Check-In, located in the hallway near the loading dock.

5. Proceed to your assigned space and begin setting up.

You do not need to bring your vehicle directly to the loading dock if you can transport your merchandise from the parking garage.

This method helps reduce congestion and allows you to avoid waiting in the vehicle unloading queue.

​

Vehicle Loading Dock Access

​

Vendors with larger quantities of merchandise, oversized equipment, or substantial displays may bring their vehicles directly to the loading dock.

South Building Loading Dock

20 S. 5th Street
Phoenix, AZ

Please remember:

• Vehicles are limited to 30 minutes maximum at the loading dock.

• Loading areas are for active unloading only.

• Vehicles must be moved immediately after unloading.

• Do not leave vehicles unattended or block other exhibitors.

• Once unloaded, vehicles should be relocated to an appropriate parking facility.

​

Important Parking Reminders

​

• Parking availability and rates may vary throughout the weekend.

• Allow additional time for traffic, parking, unloading, and check-in.

• Do not park in loading zones, fire lanes, or restricted areas.

• Anime Arizona is not responsible for parking tickets, towing fees, or parking charges.

• Vendors are responsible for transporting their merchandise and equipment between their vehicles and assigned spaces.

​

10. FINAL VENDOR REMINDERS & CONTACT INFORMATION

​

We're excited to welcome you to Anime Arizona 2026 at the Phoenix Convention Center, November 13–15!

Please review the following reminders to ensure a smooth load-in and a successful convention weekend.

​

Important Dates & Deadlines

​

Thursday, November 12

• 2:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Early Vendor & Artist Load-In

Friday, November 13

• 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM: Final Vendor & Artist Load-In

• 2:00 PM: All booths must be fully set up and operational

• 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Preview Night

Saturday, November 14

• 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Vendor Access & Restocking

• 9:00 AM: All booths must be ready for attendees

• 9:30 AM: VIP Vendor Hall Entry

• 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM: General Admission Hours

Sunday, November 15

• 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Vendor Access & Restocking

• 9:00 AM: All booths must be ready for attendees

• 9:30 AM: VIP Vendor Hall Entry

• 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: General Admission Hours

• 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Vendor & Artist Load-Out

• Load-out may begin only after staff authorization.

• 10:00 PM: All exhibitors must complete load-out

​

Before You Arrive

​

Please make sure you have:

• Confirmed your assigned Vendor Booth or Artist Alley space number.

• Planned your arrival during the designated load-in hours.

• Arranged any necessary electrical or internet services.

• Reserved parking in advance, if needed.

• Reviewed all merchandise and booth display restrictions.

• Made arrangements for any additional exhibitor badges you require.

​

Vendor Check-In & Load-In Address

​

Phoenix Convention Center — South Building Loading Dock

20 S. 5th Street
Phoenix, AZ

Vendor and Artist Check-In will be located in the hallway near the loading dock.

Recommended Parking: East Parking Garage

601 E. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Vendors who can transport their merchandise by hand or with a small cart are encouraged to park in the East Garage, cross 5th Street, and enter through the loading dock.

​

Important Policies

​

• All booths must be fully operational by 2:00 PM on Friday. Failure to meet this deadline may result in forfeiture of your space without a refund.

• AI-generated artwork and merchandise may not be sold.

• Pornographic materials may not be sold or displayed.

• Merchandise and displays must remain within your assigned space.

• Booth assignments may change, including during the convention.

• All vendors and booth staff must have valid exhibitor credentials.

• Vehicles unloading at the dock are limited to 30 minutes.

​

Vendor Resources

​

VENDOR DOCUMENTS, LOGOS & ELECTRICAL ORDER FORMS

PARKING INFORMATION

INTERNET SERVICES — SMART CITY NETWORKS

​

Questions or Assistance?

​

If you have questions regarding your booth assignment, vendor credentials, load-in procedures, or other event logistics, please contact the Anime Arizona Support Team.

Email: support@animearizona.com

For assistance during the convention, please visit Vendor Check-In or speak with an Anime Arizona staff member.

Thank you for being part of Anime Arizona 2026!

We appreciate your participation and look forward to an incredible weekend with all of our vendors and artists!